Communications and Public Relations Officer
Location: Wrexham
Contract: Temporary (until end of September)
Pay rate negotiable, dependant on experience
We have a temporary opportunity available for an experienced Communications and Public Relations Officer to join a busy Marketing and Communications team based in Wrexham.
This is a hands-on role focused on proactive media relations, external communications and reputation management. You will lead on developing and delivering a digital-first external communications strategy, while confidently working across traditional media channels to enhance organisational profile locally, regionally and nationally.
We are keen to appoint someone who can add immediate value, operate at pace and work effectively with senior stakeholders across a complex organisation.
The Role
You will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive external communications strategy that strengthens reputation and promotes the work of staff and students. Working closely with the wider marketing function, you will ensure all communications are aligned, coordinated and support strategic priorities.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the development and delivery of the external communications and PR strategy
- Managing proactive media relations, including writing press releases, statements and opinion pieces
- Pitching stories and managing media enquiries
- Supporting senior colleagues with communications around key institutional projects and announcements
- Developing a forward-planned, digital-first media and PR calendar
- Creating engaging content including articles, blogs, vlogs, videos and presentations
- Horizon scanning and identifying opportunities for expert comment on emerging news stories
- Leading communications for major institutional projects and initiatives
- Building and maintaining relationships with journalists, stakeholders and influencers
- Monitoring, evaluating and reporting on communications activity
- Advising colleagues on best practice, messaging and appropriate communication channels
The role also involves supporting high-level internal communications and ensuring alignment between internal and external messaging.
You will be expected to manage competing priorities, work under pressure and meet tight deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and professionalism.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:
- Experience developing and delivering external communications strategies within a complex organisation
- A strong digital-first mindset, alongside confidence using traditional media channels
- Proven experience in media relations and/or journalism
- Excellent writing, editing and proof-reading skills
- Experience leading communications for projects and stakeholder engagement initiatives
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise effectively
- Confidence working with senior stakeholders
- Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills
- Experience using CMS platforms, social media channels and Microsoft Office tools
You will be proactive, adaptable and comfortable taking ownership of communications activity. The ability to quickly interpret complex information and make sound decisions in pressurised situations is essential.
Experience within education, the public sector or a similarly complex environment would be advantageous.
Welsh language skills are desirable but not essential.
Additional Information
- Temporary contract running until the end of September
- Occasional evening or weekend work may be required
- Some travel may be required
- The role is based in Wrexham
If you are an experienced communications professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can deliver strategic, high-impact PR activity from day one, we would welcome your application.
Please note: Candidates will require existing eligibility to work in the UK to be considered for this role.